Shrimp and Avocado Bowls with Mango Salsa & Lime-Chili Sauce

These Shrimp and Avocado Bowls with Mango Salsa & Lime-Chili Sauce are a delightful way to enjoy a tropical meal right at home. Perfect for weeknight dinners or meal prep, this dish combines grilled shrimp, fresh avocado, and vibrant mango salsa, all drizzled with a zesty lime-chili sauce. The combination of flavors and textures makes it an exciting option for any occasion.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick Preparation: This recipe takes only 25 minutes from start to finish, making it ideal for busy weeknights.
• Fresh Ingredients: Packed with fresh produce like avocado and mango, these bowls are a healthy choice.
• Flavor Explosion: The smoky shrimp paired with sweet mango salsa and tangy lime-chili sauce creates a burst of flavors in every bite.
• Customizable: You can easily adapt this recipe by adding your favorite grains or vegetables.
• Meal Prep Friendly: These bowls are perfect for preparing ahead of time, ensuring you have nutritious meals ready to go.

Tools and Preparation

To make your Shrimp and Avocado Bowls with Mango Salsa & Lime-Chili Sauce successfully, having the right tools on hand is essential.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Grill pan or skillet
• Mixing bowls
• Knife and cutting board
• Whisk

Importance of Each Tool

• Grill pan or skillet: Ideal for achieving that perfect char on the shrimp, enhancing their flavor.
• Mixing bowls: Necessary for combining ingredients for the mango salsa and lime-chili sauce without mess.
• Knife and cutting board: Essential for dicing the mango, onion, and slicing the avocado efficiently.

Ingredients

These Shrimp and Avocado Bowls with Mango Salsa & Lime-Chili Sauce feature fresh ingredients that create a balanced meal. Here’s what you’ll need:

For the Shrimp

• 1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined
• 1 tsp chili powder
• Salt and pepper to taste

For the Avocado

• 1-2 ripe avocados, sliced

For the Mango Salsa

• 1 large ripe mango, diced
• 1/4 cup diced red onion
• 1 small jalapeño, finely chopped (optional)
• Juice of 1 lime
• 1-2 tbsp chopped fresh cilantro
• Salt to taste

For the Lime-Chili Sauce

• 1/4 cup plain Greek yogurt
• 1 tbsp mayonnaise (optional)
• 1 tsp honey or agave
• Zest and juice of 1 lime

For Serving

• 2 cups cooked rice or quinoa
• Fresh cilantro, chopped (for garnish)
• Lime wedges (for serving)

How to Make Shrimp and Avocado Bowls with Mango Salsa & Lime-Chili Sauce

Step 1: Prepare the Mango Salsa

Combine diced mango, red onion, jalapeño (if using), lime juice, cilantro, and a pinch of salt in a bowl. Mix well and set aside in the fridge.

Step 2: Make the Lime-Chili Sauce

Whisk together Greek yogurt, mayonnaise (if using), chili powder, lime zest and juice, honey, salt, and pepper in a separate bowl. Adjust seasoning to taste, then set aside.

Step 3: Cook the Shrimp

Pat the shrimp dry. Season them with chili powder, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Heat a grill pan or skillet over medium-high heat with a drizzle of olive oil. Cook the shrimp for 2–3 minutes per side until they turn pink and slightly charred.

Step 4: Assemble the Bowls

In each bowl, add a base of cooked rice or quinoa. Top with grilled shrimp, sliced avocado, and mango salsa.

Step 5: Drizzle Lime-Chili Sauce

Generously drizzle lime-chili sauce over each bowl. Garnish with chopped cilantro and serve immediately with lime wedges on the side.

Enjoy your delicious Shrimp and Avocado Bowls with Mango Salsa & Lime-Chili Sauce!

How to Serve Shrimp and Avocado Bowls with Mango Salsa & Lime-Chili Sauce

Serving your Shrimp and Avocado Bowls with Mango Salsa & Lime-Chili Sauce is all about enhancing the vibrant flavors of the dish. Here are some delightful suggestions to elevate your dining experience.

Fresh Herb Garnish

• Cilantro: Sprinkle chopped cilantro on top for an added layer of freshness.
• Mint: Add a few mint leaves for a surprising twist in flavor.

Flavorful Extras

• Sliced Jalapeños: For those who enjoy extra heat, add sliced jalapeños on top.
• Crumbled Feta Cheese: A sprinkle of feta can introduce a creamy, tangy taste that complements the shrimp.

Accompaniments

• Lime Wedges: Extra lime wedges allow guests to customize their bowls with additional zest.
• Tortilla Chips: Serve alongside for a crunchy texture that pairs wonderfully with the bowls.

Save this!

How to Perfect Shrimp and Avocado Bowls with Mango Salsa & Lime-Chili Sauce

Perfecting your Shrimp and Avocado Bowls with Mango Salsa & Lime-Chili Sauce involves attention to detail. Here are some tips to ensure the best results.

• Fresh Ingredients: Use ripe avocados and mangoes for optimal flavor and texture.
• Grill Temperature: Preheat your grill or pan properly to achieve that perfect char on the shrimp.
• Balanced Seasoning: Taste as you go! Adjust salt and chili powder according to your preference.
• Serving Temperature: Serve the bowls immediately after assembling for the freshest taste experience.

Best Side Dishes for Shrimp and Avocado Bowls with Mango Salsa & Lime-Chili Sauce

Pairing side dishes with your Shrimp and Avocado Bowls can enhance your meal beautifully. Here are some great options to consider:

1. Corn on the Cob: Grilled or boiled corn adds sweetness that complements the tropical flavors.
2. Black Bean Salad: A refreshing black bean salad offers protein and fiber, balancing the meal well.
3. Cucumber Salad: Light and crisp, a cucumber salad provides a cooling effect against the spicy elements.
4. Quinoa Pilaf: Flavored quinoa pilaf can be a hearty alternative base that is both nutritious and satisfying.
5. Roasted Sweet Potatoes: Sweet potatoes bring sweetness that pairs nicely with the savory shrimp and zesty sauce.
6. Garlic Bread: A crispy garlic bread can offer a delightful crunch alongside these vibrant bowls.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Shrimp and Avocado Bowls with Mango Salsa & Lime-Chili Sauce, avoid these common pitfalls.

• Skipping the seasoning – Failing to season the shrimp properly can lead to bland flavors. Always use enough salt, pepper, and spices to enhance taste.
• Overcooking the shrimp – Cooking shrimp too long can result in a rubbery texture. Aim for 2-3 minutes on each side until they are pink and charred.
• Not chilling the salsa – Serving warm mango salsa can dull its flavors. Make sure to chill it in the fridge for at least 30 minutes before serving.
• Using unripe avocados – Unripe avocados lack creaminess and flavor. Choose ripe avocados that yield slightly when pressed.
• Neglecting fresh ingredients – Using stale or low-quality ingredients will impact the dish’s overall taste. Always opt for fresh produce and seafood.

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in airtight containers for up to 2 days.
• Keep shrimp separate from avocado and salsa to maintain freshness.

Freezing Shrimp and Avocado Bowls with Mango Salsa & Lime-Chili Sauce

• Shrimp can be frozen for up to 3 months if cooked properly before freezing.
• Avoid freezing avocado as it will lose its texture when thawed.

Reheating Shrimp and Avocado Bowls with Mango Salsa & Lime-Chili Sauce

• Oven – Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and reheat the shrimp for about 10 minutes until warmed through.
• Microwave – Heat in short intervals of 30 seconds on medium power, checking frequently to avoid overcooking.
• Stovetop – Reheat in a skillet over medium heat, adding a splash of water or broth to maintain moisture.

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I customize Shrimp and Avocado Bowls with Mango Salsa & Lime-Chili Sauce?

You can add other toppings like black beans, corn, or different vegetables. Feel free to adjust the spice level by adding more jalapeño or hot sauce.

Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

Yes! You can prepare the mango salsa and lime-chili sauce in advance, but assemble the bowls just before serving for optimal freshness.

What is the best way to choose ripe avocados?

Look for avocados that are dark green and yield slightly when pressed gently. Avoid ones that feel very soft or have dark spots.

Are Shrimp and Avocado Bowls healthy?

Absolutely! This recipe is packed with protein from shrimp, healthy fats from avocado, and vitamins from fresh ingredients, making it a nutritious choice.

Final Thoughts

These Shrimp and Avocado Bowls with Mango Salsa & Lime-Chili Sauce are not just delicious but also highly versatile. You can easily customize them based on your preferences or what you have on hand. Give this recipe a try; your taste buds will thank you!